Vanity mirror

ABSTRACT

A mirror assembly can include a housing, a mirror, and a light source. In certain embodiments, the mirror includes a light pipe configured to emit a substantially constant amount of light along a periphery of the mirror. In some embodiments, the mirror assembly includes a sensor assembly. The sensor assembly can be configured to adjust the amount of emitted light based on the position of a user in relation to the mirror. Certain embodiments of the mirror include an algorithm to adjust light based on the position of a user relative to the mirror, the level of ambient light, and/or the activation of different light modes.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This present application claims priority benefit under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/608,584, filed Mar. 8,2012, entitled “VANITY MIRROR ASSEMBLY,” which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Field

The present disclosure relates to reflective devices, such as mirrors.

Description of the Related Art

Vanity mirrors are mirrors that are typically used for reflecting animage of a user during personal grooming, primping, cosmetic care, orthe like. Vanity mirrors are available in different configurations, suchas free-standing mirrors, hand-held mirrors, mirrors connected to vanitytables, bathroom wall mirrors, car mirrors, and/or mirrors attached toor produced by electronic screens or devices.

Many vanity mirrors distort the reflected image because of, for example,poor quality reflective surfaces, harsh light sources, and/or unevendistribution of light. Additionally, the light sources of conventionalvanity mirrors are typically energy inefficient. Further, the lightsources of conventional vanity mirrors are not adjustable or aredifficult to effectively adjust.

SUMMARY

In some embodiments, a mirror assembly comprises a base, a reflectiveface connected with the base, a sensor (e.g., a proximity sensor or areflective type sensor), an electronic processor, and a light source. Insome implementations, the sensor is configured to detect, and generate asignal indicative of, the distance between an object and the sensor. Theelectronic processor can be configured to receive the signal from thesensor and can control the light source, for example, by varying thequantity or quality of light emitted by the light source depending onthe detected distance between the object and the sensor.

In some embodiments, a mirror assembly comprises a base, a reflectionface, one or more light sources, and a light-conveying pathway such as alight pipe. In combination, the light sources and light pipe reflectsubstantially constant light along a length of the light pipe. Forexample, in certain embodiments, the light conveying pathway isgenerally disposed around some, substantially all, or all of a peripheryof the reflection face.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward a mirrorassembly. The mirror assembly can include a mirror coupled with thehousing portion, and a light source disposed at a periphery of themirror. The mirror assembly can include a light path, such as a lightpipe, having a length and positioned around at least a portion of theperiphery of the mirror. The mirror assembly can include a lightscattering region, such as a plurality of light scattering elementsdisposed along the length of the light pipe. The light scatteringelements can have a pattern density that varies depending, at least inpart, on the distance along the light path from the light source. Thelight scattering elements can be configured to encourage a portion ofthe light impacting the light scattering elements to be emitted out ofthe light path along a desired portion of the length of the light path.The amount of light scattering elements on the light path can varydepending, at least in part, on the distance along the light path fromthe light source. In certain embodiments, the pattern density can beless dense in a region generally adjacent the light source and moredense in a region spaced away from, or generally opposite from, thelight source along the periphery of the mirror, thereby scattering thelight to a greater degree as the intensity of the light diminishesfurther from the light source, and facilitating a substantially constantamount of light emitted along the length of the light pipe.

Any of the vanity mirror features, structures, steps, or processesdisclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. Thelight scattering elements in the region generally adjacent the lightsource can be smaller compared to the light scattering elements in theregion spaced from, or generally opposite from, or generally furthestfrom, the light source. The light source can be positioned near an upperportion of the mirror. The light pipe can be disposed alongsubstantially all of the periphery of the mirror. The light source canemit light in a direction generally orthogonal to a standard viewingdirection of the mirror. The light pipe can be generally circular andcan include a first end and a second end. The light source can emitlight into the first end, and another light source can emit light intothe second end. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements canbe generally uniformly distributed along at least a portion of the lightpipe.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward a mirror assemblyincluding a mirror coupled with a housing portion and one or more lightsources disposed at a periphery of the mirror. The one or more lightsources can be configured to emit light in a direction generallyorthogonal to a primary viewing direction of the mirror. The light pipecan have a length and can be disposed along substantially all of theperiphery of the mirror. The light pipe can be configured to receivelight from the one or more light sources and distribute the lightgenerally consistently along the length, thereby providing a generallyconstant level of illumination to the periphery of the mirror.

Any of the vanity mirror features, structures, steps, or processesdisclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. Theone or more light sources can include a first light source configured toproject light in a first direction around the periphery of the mirrorand a second light source configured to project light in a seconddirection around the periphery of the mirror. The one or more lightsources can be two light sources. Each of the light sources can use lessthan or equal to about three watts of power. The one or more lightsources can have a color rendering index of at least about 90. The oneor more light sources can include light emitting diodes. The light pipecan be configured to transmit at least about 95% of the light emittedfrom the one or more light sources.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward methods ofmanufacturing a mirror assembly, such as any of the mirror assembliesdisclosed in this specification. The methods can include coupling amirror and a housing portion. The method can include disposing a lightsource at a periphery of the mirror. The method can include positioninga light pipe around at least a portion of the periphery of the mirror.The method can include disposing a plurality of light scatteringelements along the length of a light pipe. In certain embodiments, theplurality of light scattering elements can have a pattern density. Thelight scattering elements can be configured to encourage a portion ofthe light impacting the light scattering elements to be emitted out ofthe light pipe. The pattern density can be less dense in a regiongenerally adjacent the light source, and the pattern density can be moredense in a region generally opposite from, spaced from, or furthestfrom, the light source along the periphery of the mirror, therebyfacilitating a substantially constant amount of light emitted along thelength of the light pipe. In certain embodiments, the method can includepositioning the light source near an upper portion of the mirror. Incertain embodiments, the method can include disposing the light pipearound substantially all of the periphery of the mirror. In certainembodiments, the method can include positioning the light source to emitlight in a direction generally orthogonal to a main viewing direction ofthe mirror. In certain embodiments, the method can include positioningthe light source to emit light into a first end of the light pipe andpositioning another light source to emit light into a second end of thelight pipe. In certain embodiments, the method can include disposing thelight scattering elements in a generally uniform pattern along at leasta portion of the light pipe.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward a mirror assemblyhaving a housing portion, a mirror, one or more light sources, aproximity sensor, and an electronic processor. The mirror can be coupledwith the housing portion. The one or more light sources can be disposedat a periphery of the mirror. The proximity sensor can be configured todetect an object within a sensing region. The proximity sensor can beconfigured to generate a signal indicative of a distance between theobject and the proximity sensor. The electronic processor can beconfigured to generate an electronic signal to the one or more lightsources for emitting a level of light that varies depending on thedistance between the object and the sensor.

Any of the vanity mirror features, structures, steps, or processesdisclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. Theproximity sensor can be positioned generally near a top region of themirror. The electronic processor can be configured to generate anelectronic signal to the one or more light sources to deactivate if theproximity sensor does not detect the presence and/or movement of theobject for a predetermined period of time. The proximity sensor can beconfigured to have increased sensitivity after the proximity sensordetects the object (e.g., by increasing the trigger zone distance, byincreasing the sensitivity to movement within a trigger zone, and/or byincreasing the time period until deactivation). The mirror assembly caninclude an ambient light sensor configured to detect a level of ambientlight. In some embodiments, the sensing region can extend from about 0degrees to about 45 degrees downward relative to an axis extending fromthe proximity sensor. The proximity sensor can be mounted at an anglerelative to a viewing surface of the mirror. The mirror assembly caninclude a lens cover positioned near the proximity sensor. In certainembodiments, a front surface of the lens cover can be positioned at anangle relative to the proximity sensor. The mirror assembly can includea light pipe having a length and being disposed along substantially allof the periphery of the mirror. The light pipe can be configured toreceive light from the one or more light sources and distribute thelight generally consistently along the length, thereby providing asubstantially constant level of illumination to the periphery of themirror.

Certain aspects of this disclosure are directed toward a method ofmanufacturing a mirror assembly. The method can include coupling amirror with a housing portion. The method can include disposing one ormore light sources at a periphery of the mirror. The method can includeconfiguring a proximity sensor to generate a signal indicative of adistance between an object and the proximity sensor. The method caninclude configuring an electronic processor to generate an electronicsignal to the one or more light sources for emitting a level of lightthat varies depending on the distance between the object and the sensor.

Any of the vanity mirror features, structures, steps, or processesdisclosed in this specification can be included in any embodiment. Themethod of manufacturing the mirror assembly can include positioning theproximity sensor generally near a top region of the mirror. The methodcan include configuring the electronic processor to generate anelectronic signal to the one or more light sources to deactivate if theproximity sensor does not detect the object for a period of time. Themethod can include configuring the proximity sensor to have increasedsensitivity after the proximity sensor detects the object. The methodcan include configuring an ambient light sensor to detect a level ofambient light. The method can include configuring the proximity sensorto detect an object within a sensing region extending from about 0degrees to about 45 degrees downward relative to an axis extending fromthe proximity sensor. The method can include mounting the proximitysensor at an angle relative to a viewing surface of the mirror. Themethod can include positioning a lens cover near the proximity sensor.In certain embodiments, the method can include positioning a frontsurface of the lens cover at an angle relative to the proximity sensor.The method can include disposing a light pipe along substantially all ofthe periphery of the mirror. The light pipe can be configured to receivelight from the one or more light sources and distribute the lightgenerally consistently along the length, thereby providing asubstantially constant level of illumination to the periphery of themirror.

For purposes of summarizing the disclosure, certain aspects, advantagesand features of the inventions have been described herein. It is to beunderstood that not necessarily any or all such advantages are achievedin accordance with any particular embodiment of the inventions disclosedherein. No aspects of this disclosure are essential or indispensable.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The above-mentioned and other features of the mirror assembly disclosedherein are described below with reference to the drawings of certainembodiments. The illustrated embodiments are intended to illustrate, butnot to limit the present disclosure. The drawings contain the followingFigures:

FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of an embodiment of a mirrorassembly.

FIG. 2 illustrates a front view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIGS. 3 and 4 illustrate side views of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5 illustrates a top view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 illustrates a bottom view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 illustrates a rear view of the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8A illustrates an exploded view of an embodiment of the mirrorassembly.

FIG. 8B illustrates an exploded view of another embodiment of the mirrorassembly.

FIG. 9 illustrates an enlarged view of the embodiment of FIG. 8A showinga sensor assembly.

FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of the embodiment of FIG. 8Bshowing a rear side of a sensor assembly.

FIG. 11 illustrates a light conveying pathway of the embodiment shown inFIG. 1.

FIGS. 11A-11B illustrate enlarged views of portions of the lightconveying pathway shown in FIG. 11.

FIG. 12 illustrates an enlarged view of the embodiment of FIG. 1 showinga partially exploded view of a base portion.

FIG. 13 illustrates a block diagram of an embodiment of an algorithmthat can be carried-out by components of the mirror assembly of FIG. 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS

Certain embodiments of a mirror assembly are disclosed in the context ofa portable, free-standing vanity mirror, as it has particular utility inthis context. However, the various aspects of the present disclosure canbe used in many other contexts as well, such as wall-mounted mirrors,mirrors mounted on articles of furniture, automobile vanity mirrors(e.g., mirrors located in sun-visors), and otherwise. None of thefeatures described herein are essentially or indispensible. Any feature,structure, or step disclosed herein can be replaced with or combinedwith any other feature, structure, or step disclosed herein, or omitted.

As shown in FIGS. 1-7, the mirror assembly 2 can include a housingportion 8 and a visual image reflective surface, such as a mirror 4. Thehousing portion 8 can include a support portion 20, a shaft portion 12,and/or a base portion 14. The housing portion 8 can also include a pivotportion 16 connecting the support portion 20 and the shaft portion 12.Certain components of the housing portion 8 can be integrally formed orseparately formed and connected together to form the housing portion 8.The housing 8 can include plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, or othersuitable materials.

The mirror assembly 2 can include one or more of the componentsdescribed in connection with FIGS. 8A and 8B. FIG. 8B illustrates amirror assembly 102 including many components similar to the mirrorassembly 2 components. The similar components include similar referencenumbers in the 100s (e.g., mirror 4 can be similar to mirror 104).

The mirror 4 can include a generally flat or generally sphericalsurface, which can be convex or concave. The radius of curvature candepend on the desired optical power. In some embodiments, the radius ofcurvature can be at least about 15 inches and/or less than or equal toabout 30 inches. The focal length can be half of the radius ofcurvature. For example, the focal length can be at least about 7.5inches and/or less than or equal to about 15 inches. In someembodiments, the radius of curvature can be at least about 18 inchesand/or less than or equal to about 24 inches. In some embodiments, themirror 4 can include a radius of curvature of about 20 inches and afocal length of about 10 inches. In some embodiments, the mirror 4 isaspherical, which can facilitate customization of the focal points.

In some embodiments, the radius of curvature of the mirror 4 iscontrolled such that the magnification (optical power) of the object isat least about 2 times larger and/or less than or equal to about 7 timeslarger. In certain embodiments, the magnification of the object is about5 times larger. In some embodiments, the mirror can have a radius ofcurvature of about 19 inches and/or about 7 times magnification. In someembodiments, the mirror can have a radius of curvature of about 24inches and/or about 5 times magnification.

As shown in FIG. 8A, the mirror 4 can have a generally circular shape.In other embodiments, the mirror 4 can have an overall shape that isgenerally elliptical, generally square, generally rectangular, or anyother shape. In some embodiments, the mirror 4 can have a diameter of atleast about 8 inches and/or less than or equal to about 12 inches. Insome embodiments, the mirror 4 can have a diameter of about 8 inches. Incertain embodiments, the mirror 4 can have a diameter of at least about12 inches and/or less than or equal to about 16 inches. In someembodiments, the mirror 4 can include a thickness of at least about 2 mmand/or less than or equal to about 3 mm. In some embodiments, thethickness is less than or equal to about two millimeters and/or greaterthan or equal to about three millimeters, depending on the desiredproperties of the mirror 4 (e.g., reduced weight or greater strength).In some embodiments, the surface area of the mirror 4 is substantiallygreater than the surface area of the base 14. In other embodiments, thesurface area of the image-reflecting surface of the mirror 4 is greaterthan the surface area of the base 14.

The mirror 4 can be highly reflective (e.g., has at least about 90%reflectivity). In some embodiments, the mirror 4 has greater than about70% reflectivity and/or less than or equal to about 90% reflectivity. Inother embodiments, the mirror 4 has at least about 80% reflectivityand/or less than or equal to about 100% reflectivity. In certainembodiments, the mirror has about 87% reflectivity. The mirror 4 can becut out or ground off from a larger mirror blank so that mirror edgedistortions are diminished or eliminated. One or more filters can beprovided on the mirror to adjust one or more parameters of the reflectedlight. In some embodiments, the filter comprises a film and/or a coatingthat absorbs or enhances the reflection of certain bandwidths ofelectromagnetic energy. In some embodiments, one or more color adjustingfilters, such as a Makrolon filter, can be applied to the mirror toattenuate desired wavelengths of light in the visible spectrum.

The mirror 4 can be highly transmissive (e.g., nearly 100%transmission). In some embodiments, transmission can be at least about90%. In some embodiments, transmission can be at least about 95%. Insome embodiments, transmission can be at least about 99%. The mirror 4can be optical grade and/or comprise glass. For example, the mirror 4can include ultra clear glass. Alternatively, the mirror 4 can includeother translucent materials, such as plastic, nylon, acrylic, or othersuitable materials. The mirror 4 can also include a backing includingaluminum or silver. In some embodiments, the backing can impart aslightly colored tone, such as a slightly bluish tone to the mirror. Insome embodiments, an aluminum backing can prevent rust formation andprovide an even color tone. The mirror 4 can be manufactured usingmolding, machining, grinding, polishing, or other techniques.

The mirror assembly 2 can include one or more light sources 30configured to transmit light. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, themirror assembly can include a plurality (e.g., two) of light sources 30.Various light sources 30 can be used. For example, the light sources 30can include light emitting diodes (LEDs), fluorescent light sources,incandescent light sources, halogen light sources, or otherwise. In someembodiments, each light source 30 consumes at least about 2 watts ofpower and/or less than or equal to about 3 watts of power. In certainembodiments, each light source 30 consumes about 2 watts of power.

In certain embodiments, the width of each light source can be less thanor equal to about 10.0 mm. In certain embodiments, the width of eachlight source can be less than or equal to about 6.5 mm. In certainembodiments, the width of each light source can be less than or equal toabout 5.0 mm. In certain embodiments, the width of each light source canbe about 4.0 mm.

The light sources 30 can be configured to mimic or closely approximatenatural light with a substantially full spectrum of light in the visiblerange. In some embodiments, the light sources 30 have a colortemperature of greater than or equal to about 4500 K and/or less than orequal to about 6500 K. In some embodiments, the color temperature of thelight sources 30 is at least about 5500 K and/or less than or equal toabout 6000 K. In certain embodiments, the color temperature of the lightsources 30 is about 5700 K.

In some embodiments, the light sources 30 have a color rendering indexof at least about 70 and/or less than or equal to about 90. Certainembodiments of the one or more light sources 30 have a color renderingindex (CRI) of at least about 80 and/or less than or equal to about 100.In some embodiments, the color rendering index is high, at least about87 and/or less than or equal to about 92. In some embodiments, the colorrendering index is at least about 90. In some embodiments, the colorrendering index can be about 85.

In some embodiments, the luminous flux can be at least about 80 lmand/or less than or equal to about 110 lm. In some embodiments, theluminous flux can be at least about 90 lm and/or less than or equal toabout 100 lm. In some embodiments, the luminous flux can be about 95 lm.

In some embodiments, the forward voltage of each light source can be atleast about 2.4 V and/or less than or equal to about 3.6 V. In someembodiments, the forward voltage can be at least about 2.8 V and/or lessthan or equal to about 3.2 V. In some embodiments, the forward voltageis about 3.0 V.

In some embodiments, the illuminance at an outer periphery of thesensing region is at least about 500 lux and/or less than or equal toabout 1000 lux. The illuminance level can be higher at a distance closerto the face of the mirror. In some embodiments, the illuminance at anouter periphery of the sensing region is about 700 lux. In someembodiments, the illuminance at an outer periphery of the sensing regionis about 600 lux. In some embodiments, the sensing region extends about8 inches away from the face of the mirror. Many other sensing regionscan also be utilized, some of which are described below. In certainvariants, the mirror assembly 2 can include a dimmer to adjust theintensity of the light.

In some embodiments, the light sources 30 are configured to providemultiple colors of light and/or to provide varying colors of light. Forexample, the light sources 30 can provide two or more discernable colorsof light, such as red light and yellow light, or provide an array ofcolors (e.g., red, green, blue, violet, orange, yellow, and otherwise).In certain embodiments, the light sources 30 are configured to changethe color or presence of the light when a condition is met or is aboutto be met. For example, certain embodiments momentarily change the colorof the emitted light to advise the user that the light is about to bedeactivated.

As shown in FIG. 9, the light sources can be positioned near theuppermost region of the mirror assembly 2. In other embodiments, thelight sources 30 are positioned at other portions of the mirror assembly2, such as, within the light pipe 10 or directly mounted to the mirror 4at spaced-apart intervals around the periphery of the mirror 4. Forexample, the light sources 30 can be positioned around some,substantially all, or all of the periphery of the mirror 4. In certainembodiments, the light sources 30 is separate from and does not connectwith the mirror assembly 2.

The light sources 30 can be positioned in various orientations inrelation to each other, such as side-by-side, back-to-back, orotherwise. In certain embodiments, the light sources 30 can bepositioned to emit light in opposing directions. For example, as shownin FIG. 9, a first light source 30 a projects light in a first direction(e.g., clockwise) around the periphery of the mirror 4, and a secondlight source 30 b projects light in a second direction (e.g.,counter-clockwise) around the periphery of the mirror 4. In certainembodiments, the light sources 30 can be positioned to emit lightgenerally orthogonally to the viewing surface of the mirror assembly 2.In certain embodiments, the light sources 30 can be positioned to emitlight tangentially in relation to the periphery of the mirror 4.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a mechanism to actively or passivelydissipate, transfer, or radiate heat energy away from the light sources30, such as a fan, vent, and/or one or more passive heat dissipating orradiating structures 34. The support portion 20 can include a receivingportion 22 near an upper region of the mirror assembly 2 for receiving aheat dissipating structures 34. The heat dissipating structures 34 canformed of materials with a high rate of heat conduction, such asaluminum or steel, to help remove heat from the mirror assembly that isgenerated by the light sources 30. Many other heat dissipatingmaterials, such as copper or brass, can be used.

The heat dissipating structures 34 can dissipate heat created by thelight sources 30 and/or conduct electricity to the light sources. Theheat dissipating structures 34 that both dissipate heat and conductelectricity to the light sources 30 reduce the total number of necessarycomponents. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the heat dissipatingstructure 34 can include one or more components that are generallycomparatively long in one dimension, generally comparatively wide inanother dimension, and generally comparatively narrow in anotherdimension, to provide a large surface area over a thin surface toconduct heat efficiently through the heat dissipating structure 34 andthen readily transfer such heat into the surrounding air and away fromheat-sensitive electronic components in the mirror assembly. Forexample, the length of the heat dissipating structure 34 can besubstantially greater than the width of the heat dissipating structure34, and the width of the heat dissipating structure 34 can besubstantially greater than the thickness.

The heat dissipating structures 34 can be electrically connected circuitboards and/or provides electric power and signals to the light sources30 attached directly or indirectly thereto. In some embodiments, thetemperature of the light sources 30 with the heat dissipating structures34 is less than or equal to about 70° F. In some embodiments, thetemperature of the light sources 30 with the heat dissipating structures34 is between about 50° F. and 60° F.

As shown in FIG. 8A, the heat dissipating structure 34 can be a singlestructure including a support panel 34 c positioned substantiallyparallel to the mirror 4. In some embodiments, the support panel 34 c isa circuit board. The heat dissipating structure 34 can also include oneor more fins mounted to the support panel 34 c. As shown in FIG. 8A, theheat dissipating structure 34 can include two fins 34 a, 34 b. The fins34 a, 34 b can be positioned between the support panel 34 c and themirror 4. The fins 34 a, 34 b can also be positioned such that the firstends of each of the fins 34 a′, 34 b′ are closer together than thesecond ends of the fins 34 a″, 34 b″ (e.g., V-shaped). The fins 34 a, 34b can be directly or indirectly connected to the light sources 30. Forexample, each fin 34 a, 34 b can receive a light source 30.

As shown in FIG. 8B, the heat dissipating structures 134 a, 134 b can beseparate components. Similar to FIG. 8A, the heat dissipating structures134 a, 134 b can be positioned such that the first ends of each of thestructures 134 a′, 134 b′ are closer together than the second ends ofthe fins 134 a″, 134 b″ (e.g., generally V-shaped). The structures 134a, 134 b can be directly or indirectly connected to the light sources130. For example, each of the structures 134 a, 134 b can receive alight source 130.

FIG. 10 shows a rear side of the mirror assembly 102 without a rearcover portion 118. The second end of each of the heat dissipatingstructures 134 a″, 134 b″ can be positioned between the first end 140 aand the second end 140 b of the light pipe and on either side of thesensor assembly 128. The heat dissipating structures 134 a, 134 b can bepositioned behind the support structure 120. For example, the heatdissipating structures 134 a, 134 can be positioned between a circuitboard 170 and the rear cover portion (not shown). The support portion120 can also include one or more clasps 172 or other structures forengaging the circuit board 170.

The support portion 20 can support the mirror 4 and a light conveyingstructure, such as a light pipe 10, positioned around at least a portionof a periphery of the mirror 4. In some embodiments, the light pipe 10is positioned only along an upper portion of mirror 4 or a side portionof the mirror 4. In other embodiments, the light pipe 10 extends aroundat least majority of the periphery of the mirror 4, substantially theentire periphery of the mirror 4, or around the entire periphery of themirror 4. As shown in FIG. 8A, the support portion 20 can include astructure, such as a ridge 21, which can support the light pipe 10(e.g., a portion of the light pipe 10 can be disposed along the ridge21).

Some or all of the light from the light sources 30 can be transmittedgenerally toward, or into, the light pipe 10. For example, as shown inFIG. 8A, the light pipe 10 can include ends 40 a, 40 b, and the lightsources 30 can emit light into one or both of the ends 40 a, 40 b of thelight pipe 10. The light sources 30 can be positioned such that thelight is emitted generally toward a user facing the viewing surface ofthe mirror assembly 2. For example, some or all of the light from thelight sources 30 and/or the light pipe 10 can be emitted toward, andreflected off of, another component before contacting the user. In someembodiments, the light sources 30 are positioned behind the mirror 4(e.g., creating a backlighting effect of the mirror 4). In someembodiments, the light sources 30 are positioned (e.g., by tilting) suchthat light emitted from the light sources 30 contacts the viewingsurface of the mirror assembly 2 at an angle, such as an acute angle. Insome embodiments, the light sources 30 are positioned such that lightemitted from the light sources 30 contacts the viewing surface of themirror assembly 2 at an obtuse angle.

When installed on the support member 20, the light pipe 10 has a radialwidth and an axial depth. Some variants have a radial width that isgreater than or equal to than the axial depth. In certainimplementations, the light pipe 10 is configured to provide adequatearea for the reflecting surface of the mirror 4 and to providesufficient area for light to be emitted from the light pipe 10, as willbe discussed in more detail below. For example, the ratio of the radialwidth of the light pipe 10 to the radius of the mirror 4 can be lessthan or equal to about: ⅕, 1/15, 1/30, 1/50, values in between, orotherwise.

As shown in FIG. 8A, the light pipe 10 can be substantially circularlyshaped. The light pipe 10 can include a gap 44, and the sensor assembly28 and/or the light sources 30 can be positioned in the gap 44. In someembodiments, the light pipe 10 can be substantially linearly shaped, orthe light pipe 10 has a non-linear and non-circular shape. The lightpipe 10 can include acrylic, polycarbonate, or any other clear or highlytransmissive material. The light pipe 10 can be at least slightlyopaque.

The light can pass along and through a portion of the light pipe 10and/or emit from the light pipe 10 via an outer face 42 of the lightpipe 10. In some embodiments, the light pipe 10 is configured totransmit at least about 95% of the light emitted from the light sources30. The light sources 30 can be configured, in combination with lightpipe 10, to emit light generally around the periphery of the mirror 4.The light pipe 10 can be configured to disperse light from the lightsources 30 through the light pipe 10. The light sources 30 and the lightpipe 10 can be configured such that the amount of light emitted from theouter face 42 is substantially constant along the length of the lightpipe 10. Many different ways of achieving a substantially constantintensity of conveyed light around the light pipe 10 can be used.

The support portion 20 and/or the light pipe 10 can include features tofacilitate generally even or uniform diffusion, scattering, and/orreflection of the light emitted by the light sources 30 around theperiphery of the mirror. For example, the support portion 20 and/orlight pipe 10 can include an irregular anterior and/or posterior surfacethat is molded in a non-flat and/or non-planar way, etched, roughened,painted, and/or otherwise surface modified. The light scatteringelements can be configured to disperse a substantially constant amountof light along the periphery of the mirror 4. These features can helpachieve high energy-efficiency, reducing the total number of lightsources necessary to light substantially the entire periphery of themirror and reducing the temperature of the mirror assembly 2.

The light pipe 10 can comprise a generally translucent material withvarying degrees of scattering, such that the minimum amount ofscattering occurs in a region near the light source(s) and the maximumscattering occurs in a region of the light pipe 10 that is locatedfurthest from the light source(s). The light pipe 10 can comprise aregion configured to scatter light in a varying manner. In someembodiments, the light conveying pathway or light pipe 10 can comprise avarying, non-constant, non-smooth anterior, posterior, and/or interiorsurface formed from any suitable process, such as molding, etching,roughening painting, coating, and/or other methods. In some embodiments,one or more surface irregularities can be very small bumps, protrusions,and/or indentations.

In some embodiments, light passing through the light pipe 10 can bescattered at a plurality of different intensity levels, depending on thelocation of the light within the light pipe 10. For example, light at afirst location on the light pipe 10 can be scattered at a firstintensity level, light at a second location on the light pipe 10 can bescattered at a second intensity level, and light at a third location onthe light pipe 10 can be scattered at a third intensity level, with thethird intensity level being more than the second intensity level, andthe second intensity level being more than the first intensity level,etc. Many other levels of scattering and many ways of spatiallyincreasing or decreasing scattering can be used instead of or inaddition to providing macro scattering elements, such as spatiallyvarying a level of die or a frosting effect within the material of thelight pipe 10, or by spatially varying scattering particles embeddedwithin the material, or by spatially varying a surface pattern on one ormore outside surfaces of the material.

The light pipe 10 can include a surface pattern, such as lightscattering elements 74 (e.g., a dot pattern) as shown in FIG. 11. Thelight scattering elements 74 can be configured to encourage a portion ofthe light passing through the light pipe 10 to exit the outer face 42 ofthe light pipe 10, thereby generally illuminating the user in agenerally even or generally uniform manner. The light scatteringelements can be configured such that the light intensity emitted fromthe outer face 42 of the light pipe 10 is substantially constant along asubstantial portion of, or virtually the entirety of, the length of thelight pipe 10. Accordingly, the user can receive generally constantlight volume or intensity around the periphery of the mirror 4. Forexample, the light scattering elements can include one or more of varieddensity, irregular patterns, or varied sizes.

As shown in FIG. 11, the light scattering elements 74 can be less densenear the light sources 30 (FIG. 11B), and become increasingly dense as afunction of increased distance from the light sources 30 (FIG. 11A).Such a configuration can, for example, reduce the amount of light thatis scattered or reflected (and thus exits the outer face 42) in areashaving generally increased light volume or light intensity, such asportions of the light pipe 10 that are near the light sources 30.Further, such a configuration can encourage additional scattering orreflection (and thus increase the amount that exits the outer face 42)in areas having generally decreased light volume or intensity, such asportions of the light pipe 10 that are spaced away from the lightsources 30. Accordingly, the mirror assembly 2 can avoid bright areas atsome portions of the periphery of the mirror 4 and dark areas at otherportions. The mirror assembly 2 can have a substantially constant amountof light emitted along some, substantially all, or all of the peripheryof the mirror 4.

The light scattering elements can be dispersed in an irregular pattern,such that the light scattering pattern in a first region is differentthan a light scattering pattern in a second region. A distance between afirst light scattering element and a second light scattering element canbe different than a distance between a first light scattering elementand a third light scattering element.

The sizes (e.g., the diameter) of the light scattering elements can bevaried. In some variants, the light scattering elements near the lightsources 30 can have a smaller size when compared to light scatteringelements that are farther from the light sources 30. For example, thelight scattering elements can include a smaller diameter near the lightsources 30 and become increasingly larger as a function of distance fromthe light sources 30. Such a configuration allows substantially evenreflection of light to the outer surface 42. In certain embodiments,each light scattering element has a diameter of less than or equal toabout one millimeter. In some embodiments, the light scattering elementseach have a diameter greater than or equal to about one millimeter.

In some embodiments, the light scattering elements can be generallycircular. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements have othershapes, such as generally square, generally rectangular, generallypentagonal, generally hexagonal, generally octagonal, generally oval,and otherwise. In certain embodiments, the pattern in the light pipe 10is a series of lines, curves, spirals, or any other pattern. In certainembodiments, the light scattering elements are white. The lightscattering elements can be dispersed such that the light pipe 10 appearsfrosted. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements are noteasily visible to the user. For example, the light pipe 10 can beslightly opaque to conceal the appearance of the surface pattern. Insome embodiments, the light scattering elements are visible to the user,the light pipe 10 can be clear to show the general color and pattern ofthe surface elements.

The light pipe 10 can include a reflective material to achieve highreflectivity. For example, the light pipe 10 can include a reflectivebacking material along the rear side of the light pipe. In someembodiments, the reflective material can reflect at least about 95% oflight. In some embodiments, the reflective material reflects about 98%of light. The reflective material can be optically reflective paper.

As shown in FIG. 8B, the mirror assembly 102 can also include a diffuser156. The diffuser 156 can be positioned on the surface of the light pipe110 and/or around the periphery of the mirror 104. For example, thediffuser 156 can be positioned between the light pipe 10 and the user toprovide a diffuse, scattered light source, not a focused, sharp lightsource, which would be less comfortable on the user's eyes. In someembodiments, the transmissivity of the diffuser is substantiallyconstant around its perimeter or circumference. In some embodiments, thediffuser 156 can surround a majority of the periphery of the mirror 104,substantially the entire periphery of the mirror, or the entireperiphery of the mirror. As shown in FIG. 8B, the diffuser 156 cansurround generally the same portion of the periphery of the mirror 104as the light pipe 110. The diffuser 156 can also include an opening 160for the sensor assembly 128 and/or a receiving portion 157 for receivingthe mirror 104. The diffuser 156 can include an at least partiallyopaque material. For example, the diffuser 156 can include optical gradeacrylic.

The diffuser 156 can include an irregular anterior and/or posteriorsurface formed from etching, roughening, painting, and/or other methodsof surface modification. For example, the diffuser 156 can include apattern of light scattering elements (not shown) created using any ofthe methods discussed herein. The light scattering elements can bemodified to include any of the shapes and/or sizes discussed inconnection with the light pipe 10.

The light scattering elements can be configured to create soft light byfurther scattering the light. For example, the light scattering elementscan include a plurality of dots having the same diameter or differentdiameters. In some embodiments, the light scattering elements can beevenly dispersed across the diffuser 156. In other embodiments, thelight scattering elements can be randomly dispersed across the diffuser156.

Returning to FIG. 8A, a cover member 6 can cover the sensor assembly 28and the light sources 30. The cover member 6 can be clear and polishedacrylic, polycarbonate, or any other suitable material. On the rearside, the housing 8 can include a rear cover portion 18, which can beconfigured to at least partially enclose one or more components of themirror assembly 2. The rear cover portion 18 can include an aperture 32through which the pivot portion 16 can extend to engage with the supportportion 20. The rear cover portion 18 can also include one or more ventsto further reduce the temperature. As shown in FIG. 8B, the mirrorassembly 102 can include a gasket 164 positioned between the supportportion 120 and rear cover portion 118.

As previously noted, the pivot portion 16 can connect the supportportion 20 and the shaft portion 12. The pivot portion 16 allows themirror 4 to be pivoted in one or more directions (e.g., up, down, right,left, and/or in any other direction). For example, the pivot 16 caninclude a ball joint, one or more hinges, or otherwise.

The support portion 20 and the mirror 4 can be adjustable (e.g.,slidably movable and/or rotatable) along an axis generally parallel tothe surface of the mirror 4 and to the ground and/or along an axisgenerally parallel to the surface of the mirror 4 and perpendicular tothe ground. For example, the shaft portion 12 can be adjustable (e.g.,slidably movable and/or rotatable) along an axis generally parallel tothe surface of the mirror 4 and perpendicular to the ground. The supportportion 20 and the mirror 4 can also be rotatable along an axisgenerally perpendicular from the surface of the mirror 4 (e.g.,rotatable about the center of the mirror 4). The housing portion 8 canalso include additional pivot portions, such as along the shaft portion12.

To adjust the height of the mirror assembly 2, the shaft portion 12 canbe configured to translate generally perpendicular to the ground whenthe mirror assembly 2 is positioned on the base 14. In some embodiments,the height of the shaft portion 12 can be adjusted within a range of atleast about three inches and/or within a range less than four inches. Insome embodiments, the height of the shaft portion 12 can be adjustedwithin about a four inch range. In some embodiments, the height of theshaft portion 12 can be adjusted within about a three inch range.

The shaft portion 12 can include a first shaft portion 12 a and a secondshaft portion 12 b. The shaft portions 12 a, 12 b can be configured toadjustably engage each other, thereby allowing the user to select andmaintain the mirror assembly 2 at a desired height. For example, thefirst shaft portion 12 a can include one or more biased adjustmentstructures, such as spring-loaded retractable pegs (not shown), and thesecond shaft portion 12 b can include one or more correspondingadjustment structures, such as notches (not shown). The pegs of thefirst shaft portion 12 a can engage (e.g., snap into) with the notchesof the second shaft portion 12 b to control provide articulatingadjustment of the height of the mirror assembly 2.

In some embodiments, the first shaft portion 12 a and the second shaftportion 12 b can form an interference fit. This applied pressure allowsthe first shaft portion 12 a and the second shaft portion 12 b to bestationary relative to each other (e.g. hold the support portion 20 indesired height) without external force being applied. However, theapplied pressure between the shaft portions 12 a and 12 b can becontrolled so that when the user wants to adjust the height of thesupport portion 20, the pressure can be overcome and shaft portions 12 aand 12 b can move relative to each other. For example, the amount offorce required to downwardly or upwardly adjust the height or effectivelength of the shaft portion 12 can be greater than the downward force ofgravity induced by the mass of the mirror assembly and upper shaftportion but generally less than or equal to a natural human adjustmentforce for an appliance, such as less than or equal to about 3 or about 4pounds. The sliding or adjustment of the height or effective length ofthe shaft components can be configured to stop virtually immediatelywhen the user's adjustment force stops, without requiring furtheradjustments or securing structure to stop the sliding or to secure thecomponents of the shaft portion against further unintended movement orchange in height or length. The applied pressure can also simulate adampening effect during movement of the shaft portions 12 a and 12 b.

The shaft portion 12 can also include a constraining member, such asring member, that dampens or prevents the first shaft portion 12 a frommoving relative to the second shaft portion 12 b. For example, certainvariants of the ring member threadably engage with the second shaftportion 12 b, thereby radially compressing the second shaft portion 12 bagainst the first shaft portion 12 a, which in turn inhibits the firstshaft portion 12 a from translating relative to the second shaft portion12 b. In certain implementations, loosening the ring member allows theuser to adjust the height of the shaft portion 12, while tightening thering member secures the first shaft portion 12 a to the second shaftportion 12 b.

In some embodiments, the shaft portion 12 includes a connector, such asa set-screw (not shown), which can be positioned generally perpendicularto the first shaft portion 12 a. The second shaft portion 12 b caninclude an opening (not shown) through which the screw member canextend. In certain implementations, when the set-screw is loosened, thefirst shaft portion 12 a can be adjusted relative to the second shaftportion 12 b. Tightening the screw member until it contacts the firstshaft portion 12 a can inhibit or prevent the first shaft portion 12 afrom moving relative to the second shaft portion 12 b.

As shown in FIG. 8B, the shaft portion 112 can include one or morebiasing members 154, such as springs (e.g., spiral coil springs, wavesprings, conical springs, or otherwise). In certain variants, the one ormore biasing members 154 are configured to facilitate adjustment of theheight of the shaft portion 112. For example, the one or more biasingmembers 154 can reduce the amount of vertical force a user must exert toraise the height of the mirror 104 relative to the base 114. The biasingmembers can be positioned in a lumen of the shaft portion 112.

The shaft portion 12 can include plastic, stainless steel, aluminum, orother suitable materials. The first shaft portion 12 a can also includecompressible materials, such as rubber, nylon, and plastics, on at leasta portion of its outer surface that press against the inner surface ofthe second shaft portion 12 b when the first shaft portion 12 a isinserted into the second shaft portion 12 b.

A portion of the support portion 20 can be cantilevered outward from thelongitudinal axis of the shaft portion 12. Such a configuration canimpart a moment of force on the mirror assembly 2, which, ifuncompensated for, could lead to tipping. The base portion 14 can alsobe configured to counteract such a moment. For example, the base portion14 can include a weight that is sufficient to reduce substantially thelikelihood of tipping of the mirror assembly 2.

The base 14 and/or other portions of the mirror assembly 2 can begenerally balanced in mass distribution such that the center of mass ofthe mirror assembly 2 is generally positioned near the shaft 12 and/ornear the base 14. The base portion 14 can weigh at least about 2 lbs., 4lbs., 6 lbs., 8 lbs., 10 lbs., values in between, or otherwise. The baseportion 14 can also include one or more supporting feet or be configuredto be semi-permanently mountable (e.g., to be mounted to a countertopwith one or more fasteners).

In some embodiments, as illustrated, the base portion 14 can have agenerally curved outer surface. For example, a horizontal cross-sectionof the base at a plurality of points along its height can be generallycircular or generally elliptical. In the illustrated embodiment, thebase portion 14 is generally conical, such as generally frusto-conical.The outer surface of the base can be generally smooth, generally taperedand/or generally sloping, as illustrated, and/or present a virtuallyentirely continuous surface generally circumscribing the periphery ofthe base 14. The horizontal cross-sectional area or diameter of the topof the base 14 generally can be about the same as the horizontalcross-sectional are or diameter of the bottom of the shaft portion 12.The horizontal cross-sectional area of the base 14 can generallycontinuously increase from the top region of the base 14 to the bottomregion of the base 14. For example, a horizontal cross-sectional area ordiameter at the bottom region of the base 14 can be substantially largerthan a horizontal cross-sectional area or diameter at the top region ofthe base 14 (e.g., at least about two or at least about three timeslarger), which is an example of a base 14 that can help resist tippingof the mirror. In some embodiments, as illustrated, the distance alongthe shaft portion 12 from the bottom of the mirror portion to the top ofthe base portion can be generally about the same as the height of thebase portion 14.

As discussed in further detail below, the base portion 14 can include abattery (e.g., a rechargeable battery). The weight and positioning ofthe battery can also reduce the chances of tipping of the mirrorassembly 2. In some embodiments, the battery can deliver power to thelight sources for at least about ten minutes per day for about thirtydays. The battery 26 can be recharged via a port 24 (e.g., a universalserial bus (USB) port or otherwise), as shown in FIG. 12. The port 24can be configured to permanently or removably receive a connectorcoupled with a wire or cable (not shown). The port 24 can also beconfigured to allow electrical potential to pass between the batteries26 with a power source via the connector. The port 24 may be used toprogram or calibrate different operations of the mirror illumination orobject sensing when connect to a computer. Other charging methods can beused, such as via conventional electric adapter to be plugged in to anelectric outlet.

The mirror assembly 2 can include an indicator device configured toissue a visual, audible, or other type of indication to a user of themirror assembly 2 regarding a characteristic of the mirror assembly 2,the user, and/or the relationship between the mirror assembly 2 and theuser. For example, the indicator can indicate on/off status, batterylevels, imminent deactivation, and/or certain mode of operation. Theindicator can be used for other purposes as well.

The color of the indicator light can vary depending on the indication.For example, the indicator can emit a green light when the mirrorassembly is turned on and/or a red light when the battery is runninglow.

As shown in FIG. 1, the indicator 58 can ring-shaped and positionedaround an upper portion of the base portion 14. The indicator 58 cantake on any other shape and be positioned around the support portion 20,along the base portion 14, or on any other location on the mirrorassembly 2.

The controller 50 controls the operation of a light sources 30. Thecontroller 50 can be disposed in the base 14 and can include one or aplurality of circuit boards (PCBs), which can provide hard wiredfeedback control circuits, a processor and memory devices for storingand performing control routines, or any other type of controller.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a sensor assembly 28, as shown inFIGS. 2A and 9. The sensor assembly 28 can be positioned near an upperregion of the mirror assembly 2 (e.g., the top of the mirror). Forexample, the sensor assembly 28 can be positioned in the gap 44 in thelight pipe 10. The sensor assembly 28 can also be recessed from thefront surface of the mirror assembly 2. Alternatively, the sensorassembly 28 can disposed along any other portion of the mirror assembly2 or not positioned on the mirror assembly 2. For example, the sensorassembly 28 can be positioned in any location in a room in which themirror assembly 2 sits. The sensor assembly 28 can include a proximitysensor or a reflective-type sensor. For example, the sensor 28 can betriggered when an object (e.g., a body part) is moved into, and/orproduces movement within, a sensing region.

The sensor assembly 28 can include a transmitter and a receiver. Thetransmitter 36 can be an emitting portion (e.g., electromagnetic energysuch as infrared light), and the receiver 38 can be a receiving portion(e.g., electromagnetic energy such as infrared light). The beam of lightemitting from the light emitting portion 36 can define a sensing region.In certain variants, the transmitter can emit other types of energy,such as sound waves, radio waves, or any other signals. The transmitterand receiver can be integrated into the same sensor or configured asseparate components.

In some embodiments, the light emitting portion 36 can emit light in agenerally perpendicular direction from the front face of the mirrorassembly. In some embodiments, the light emitting portion 36 emits lightat a downward angle from a perpendicular to the front face of the mirrorassembly by at least about 5 degrees and/or less than or equal to about45 degrees. In some embodiments, the light emitting portion 36 emitslight at a downward angle from a perpendicular to the front face of themirror assembly by at least about 15 degrees and/or less than or equalto about 60 degrees. In certain embodiments, the light emitting portion36 emits light at a downward angle of about 15 degrees.

In some embodiments, the sensor assembly 28 can detect an object withina sensing region. In certain embodiments, the sensing region can have arange from at least about 0 degrees to less than or equal to about 45degrees downward relative to an axis extending from the sensor assembly28, and/or relative to a line extending generally perpendicular to afront surface of the sensor assembly, and/or relative to a lineextending generally perpendicular to the front face of the mirror andgenerally outwardly toward the user from the top of the mirror assembly.In certain embodiments, the sensing region can have a range from atleast about 0 degrees to less than or equal to about 25 degrees downwardrelative to any of these axes or lines. In certain embodiments, thesensing region can have a range from at least about 0 degrees to lessthan or equal to about 15 degrees downward relative to any of these axesor lines.

In some embodiments, the sensing region can be adjusted by mounting thesensor assembly 28 at an angle. In certain embodiments, the sensorassembly 28 can be mounted such that the front surface of the sensingassembly 28 can be generally parallel or coplanar with a front surfaceof mirror 4. In certain embodiments, the sensor assembly 28 can bemounted such that the front surface of the sensing assembly 28 can be atan angle relative to the front surface of the mirror.

In some embodiments, the sensing region can be adjusted by modifying oneor more features of the cover member 6. In certain embodiments, thecover member 6 can include a lens material. In certain embodiments, thecover member 6 can include a generally rectangular cross-section. Incertain embodiments, the cover member 6 can include a generallytriangular cross-section. In certain embodiments, the cover member 6 caninclude a front surface generally parallel or coplanar with a frontsurface of the mirror 4. In certain embodiments, the cover member 6 caninclude a front surface at an angle relative to the front surface of themirror 4. In certain embodiments, the front surface of the cover member6 can be positioned at an angle relative to the sensor assembly 28.

In some embodiments, the sensing area generally widens as the frontsurface of the cover member 6 moves from the configuration generallyparallel or coplanar with the front surface of the mirror 4 to theconfiguration at an angle relative to the front surface of the mirror 4.In certain embodiments, when the front surface of the cover member 6 isgenerally parallel or coplanar with the front surface of the mirror, thesensing region can have a range from about 0 degrees to about 15 degreesdownward relative to the axis extending generally from the sensorassembly 28 and/or generally perpendicular to the front surface of thesensor assembly. In certain embodiments, when the front surface of thecover member 6 is at an angle relative to the front surface of themirror 4, the sensing region can have a range from about 0 degrees toabout 25 degrees downward relative to the axis extending generally fromthe sensor assembly 28 and/or generally perpendicular to the frontsurface of the sensor assembly.

The sensor assembly 28 may only require enough power to generate a lowpower beam of light, which may or may not be visible to the human eye.Additionally, the sensor assembly 28 can operate in a pulsating mode.For example, the light emitting portion 36 can be powered on and off ina cycle such as, for example, for short bursts lasting for any desiredperiod of time (e.g., less than or equal to about 0.01 second, less thanor equal to about 0.1 second, or less than or equal to about 1 second)at any desired frequency (e.g., once per half second, once per second,once per ten seconds). Cycling can greatly reduce the power demand forpowering the sensor assembly 28. In operation, cycling does not degradeperformance in some embodiments because the user generally remains inthe path of the light beam long enough for a detection signal to begenerated.

If the receiving portion 38 detects reflections (e.g., above a thresholdlevel) from an object within the beam of light emitted from the lightemitting portion 36, the sensor assembly 28 sends a signal to thecontroller to activate a light source.

The sensor assembly 28 can send different signals to the controller 50based on the amount of light reflected back toward the receiver 38. Forexample, the sensor assembly 28 is configured such that the amount oflight emitted by the light sources 30 is proportional to the amount ofreflected light, which can indicate the distance between the mirror 4and the user. In certain variants, if the user is in a first sensingregion, then the controller causes the one or more light sources 30 toactivate from an off state or to emit a first amount of light. If theuser is in a second sensing region (e.g., further away from the sensorassembly 28 than the first sensing region), then the controller causesthe one or more light sources 30 to emit a second amount of light (e.g.,less than the first amount of light).

The controller 50 can trigger at least two different levels ofbrightness from the light sources 30, such as brighter light or dimmerlight. For example, if the user is anywhere in a first sensing region,then the controller 50 signals for bright light to be emitted; if theuser is anywhere in a second sensing region, then the controller 50signals for dim light to be emitted.

The controller 50 can also trigger more than two brightness levels. Incertain implementations, the level of emitted light is related (e.g.,linearly, exponentially, or otherwise) to the distance from the sensorto the user. For example, as the user gets closer to the sensor assembly28, the one or more light sources 30 emit more light. Alternatively, themirror assembly 2 can be configured to emit more light when the user isfurther away from the sensor assembly 28, and less light as the usermoves closer to the sensor assembly 28.

The sensor assembly 28 can include two light emitting portions 36 a and36 b. Each transmitter 36 a, 36 b emits a cone of light with propershielding or guiding on the transmitters 36 a and 36 b, which definesthe detection zones of the sensors (subject to the nominal range of thesensors 28). The area in which the two cones overlap creates a primarysensing region, and areas in which the two cones emit light but do notoverlap create a secondary sensing region. If a user is detected in theprimary sensing region, then the sensor assembly 28 sends an appropriatesignal to the controller 50, which triggers a first level of light fromthe light sources 30. If a user is detected in the secondary sensingregion, then the sensor assembly 28 sends an appropriate signal to thecontroller 50, which activates a second level of light from the lightsources 30. In some embodiments, the first level of light is brighterthan the second level of light. In other embodiments, the second levelof light is brighter than the first level of light. In some embodiments,the sensor assembly 28 defines more than two sensing regions andtriggers more than two levels of light.

As shown in FIG. 9, the light emitting portions 38 can be positionedgenerally along the same horizontal plane (e.g., relative to theground). The sensor assembly 28 can issue an appropriate signal to thecontroller 50, which can trigger brighter light when the user is withina first sensing region, directly in front of the sensor assembly 28. Thesensor assembly can trigger dimmer light when the user is within asecond sensing region, in the periphery of the mirror assembly 2.

The sensor assembly 28 can include two or more light emitting portions36 that do not create overlapping detection cones within the nominalrange of the sensors 28. A first cone of light defines a first sensingregion and a second cone of light defines a second sensing region. If auser is detected in the first sensing region alone or the second sensingregion alone, then the sensor assembly 28 signals the controller 50,which activates a first level of light from the light sources 30. Incertain variants, if a user is concurrently detected in the first andsecond sensing regions, then the sensor assembly 28 signals thecontroller 50 to activate a second level of light from the light sources30. In some embodiments, the first level of light is brighter than thesecond level of light. In other embodiments, the second level of lightis brighter than the first level of light.

Activation of the light sources 30 or adjusting the amount of lightemitted from the light sources 30 can be based on factors other than thepresence of a user within a sensing region. For example, the amount oflight emitted from the light sources 30 can adjust based on motionwithin the detection zone and nominal range of the sensor 28. Certainimplementations are configured such that, if a user lifts his/her handin an upward motion, then the controller signals for the amount of lightto increase, and if a user lowers his/her hand in a downward motion,then the controller signals for the amount of light to decrease.

Once a light source 30 activates, the light source 30 can remainactivated so long as the sensor assembly 28 detects an object in asensing region. Alternatively, the light source 30 remains activated fora pre-determined period of time. For example, activating the lightsource 30 can initialize a timer. If the sensor assembly 28 does notdetect an object before the timer runs out, then the light source 30 isdeactivated. If the sensor assembly 28 detects an object before thetimer runs out, then the controller 50 reinitializes the timer, eitherimmediately or after the time runs out.

The one or more sensing regions can be used in any type of configurationthat allows the user to control an aspect of the operation of the mirrorassembly 2. For example, the one or more sensing regions can be used totrigger the mirror assembly 2 to emit different levels of light, operatefor varying durations of time, pivot the mirror, or any otherappropriate parameter.

In several embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 has one or more modes ofoperation, for example, an on mode and an off mode. A controller 50 canactivate different modes based on signals received from differentsensing regions, motions, or any other parameter. Any of the modesdescribed below can be used separately or in combination with eachother.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a task mode. When the task mode isactivated, the mirror assembly 2 can trigger a light source 30 to remainactivated or cause the sensor to enter a hyper mode (e.g., during whichthe sensor is configured to have increased sensitivity to movementwithin a zone, or to have a larger or wider sensitivity zone, or to havesome other increased sensitivity signal detection) for a pre-determinedperiod of time. For example, in some embodiments, the task mode can beespecially useful when the user plans to use the mirror assembly 2 foran extended period of time, especially if the user's body position issubstantially still for an extended period, to avoid intermittent lossof lighting while the user is still looking into the mirror. The taskmode can trigger a light source 30 to remain activated for apredetermined amount of time, even if the user is not detected within asensing region. The pre-determined amount of time can be less than orequal to about: 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, or any other suitableperiod of time. If the sensor assembly 28 does not detect a user beforethe timer runs out, then the mirror assembly 2 deactivates task mode. Incertain embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 remains in task mode untilthe user signals a light source 30 to deactivate.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a power saver mode. When the powersaver mode is activated, the light source 30 emits less light than themirror assembly 2 when not in power saver mode. The power saver mode canbe user-activated and can be used when a user plans to use the mirrorfor a relatively long period of time. Alternatively, the mirror assembly2 enters power saver mode automatically as a transition between on modeand off mode. For example, a controller 50 can initialize a timer when alight source 30 activates. If the sensor assembly 28 does not detect auser before the timer runs out, then the controller 50 enters powersaver mode and initializes a second timer. If the sensor assembly 28does not detect a user before the second timer runs out, then thecontroller 50 deactivates the light source 30.

The mirror assembly 2 can include a hyper mode. As described above, insome embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 has two light emitting portions36, each emitting a cone of light. In certain implementations, thecontroller 50 only triggers the light sources 30 to activate when thesensor assembly 28 detects an object in the region where the two conesof light intersect (e.g., the primary sensing region). In someembodiments, after the light source 30 has been activated, the mirrorassembly 2 enters hyper mode. The controller 50 can keep the lightsources 30 activated as long as the sensor assembly 2 detects the userin either one or both of the cones of light (the secondary or theprimary sensing regions). The secondary sensing region can be differentfrom the primary sensing region. For example, the secondary sensingregion can be larger than the primary sensing region. In someembodiments, this allows the user to move around and still keep thelight source 30 activated. Hyper mode can also help save power bypreventing unintentional activation when the user is near a periphery ofthe mirror assembly 2.

The mirror assembly 2 can also include ambient light sensingcapabilities. For example, when the ambient light is relatively low, thelight emitting from the light source 30 will be brighter than if theambient light is relatively bright. The light receiving portion 38 candetect both ambient light and light emitted from the transmitter 36, orthe mirror assembly 2 can include a second sensor assembly for detectingambient light.

The controller 50 can adjust the amount of signal necessary to trigger alight source 30 based on the amount of detected ambient light. Forexample, the amount of detected light required to activate the lightsources 30 can be proportional to the ambient light. Such aconfiguration can allow the light source 30 to be activated even whenthe level of ambient light is modest (e.g., in dimmed bathroomlighting). When the ambient light is less than or equal to a firstlevel, the controller 50 activates light source 30 when a first level ofthe reflected signal is detected. When the ambient light is greater thanthe first level, the controller 50 activates light source 30 when asecond level (e.g., greater than the first level) of the reflectedsignal is detected.

The controller 50 can also adjust the amount of light emitted by thelight sources 30 based on the ambient light. Such a configuration can,for example, avoid emitting a starting burst of very bright light thatwould be uncomfortable to a user's eyes, especially when the user's eyeswere previously adjusted to a lower light level, such as when thesurrounding environment is dim. For example, the amount of light emittedby the light sources 30 can be proportional to the amount of ambientdetected light.

The controller 50 can also gradually increase the level of emitted lightfrom the light sources 30 when the light sources 30 are activated and/orgradually decrease the amount of light emitted from the light sources 30when the light sources 30 are deactivated. Such a configuration caninhibit discomfort to a user's eyes when the light sources 30 turn on.

The mirror assembly 2 can also include a calibration mode. For example,the calibration mode can calibrate the different sensing regions withdifferent output characteristics as desired by the user. An algorithmcan be configured to utilize multiple sensing regions to performdifferent functions. For example, a user can configure a first sensingregion to correspond with a first level of light (e.g., lower intensitylight) and configure a second sensing region to correspond with a secondlevel of light (e.g., higher intensity light). In another example, theuser can adjust the size (e.g., width or height) of the sensing region.The user can designate a first sensing region to correspond with a firstlevel of light and designate a second sensing region to correspond witha second level of light. This calibration mode can be triggered by auser indicator, such as pressing a button, activating a sensor, or anyother appropriate mechanism.

In some embodiments, an ideal sensing region is designed so that thecenter of a user's face is generally positioned at about the center ofthe mirror portion, at a suitable perpendicular distance away from themirror to permit the user to generally closely fit the user's facewithin the outer periphery of the mirror. A proximity sensor, generallypositioned at the top region of the mirror, can be tilted downwardly atan angle below horizontal (e.g., at least about 10 degrees downward,such as about 15 degrees downward), and an algorithm can trigger a powerchange to the mirror when a user's face (or any other object) isdetected within a predetermined range of distances in a perpendicularforward direction from the front face of the mirror. For example, insome embodiments, the first region can be within a range of at leastabout 10 inches and/or less than or equal to about 12 inches (e.g.,about 11 inches) from the front face of the mirror, and the secondregion can be in a range of at least about 7 inches and/or less than orequal to about 9 inches (e.g., about 8 inches) from the front face ofthe mirror.

An algorithm can be configured to send a command to activate the lightsources 30 based on the detected signal. The algorithm can also beconfigured to emit different levels of light or vary durations of time.The algorithm can also be configured to send a command to trigger one ormore modes, including any of the modes discussed above. The command canvary based on the signal received. For example, the signal can depend onthe distance between an object and the sensor assembly 28, and/or otherparameters such as duration or path of motion.

The algorithm can initialize a timer when a light source is activated.The timer can run for at least 30 seconds and/or less than or equal to60 seconds, or any other quantity of time. In some embodiments, thetimer can run for less than 30 seconds. In some embodiments, the timercan run for about five seconds. In some embodiments, the light sourcewill immediately turn off when the time runs out. In some embodiments,the light will remain activated so long as the sensor assembly 28detects an object before time runs out. If the sensor assembly 28detects the object, the timer can immediately restart, or restart whenthe time runs out. If the sensor assembly 28 does not detect an objectbefore the time runs out, then the light source will turn off.

The algorithm can incorporate a delay that deactivates the sensor orotherwise prevents a light source 30 from emitting light immediatelyafter the light source 30 deactivates. The delay can be for 1 second, 5seconds, or any other amount of time. The delay helps prevent the userfrom unintentionally triggering the light source 30. During the delayperiod, the light source 30 will not emit light even if an object is ina sensing region during the delay period. If the sensor assembly 28detects an object after the delay period, the light sources 30 can emitlight again.

The level of light emitted from the light sources 30 does not dependsolely or at all on the length of time that the user remains in thesensing region. The level of light emitted from the light sources 30 candiffer depending on the location of the user in a different sensingregion, even if certain other parameters are the same (such as thelength of time that the user is sensed in a region).

The mirror assembly 2 can also include an algorithm configured to send acommand to trigger the light sources 30 to activate based on thedetected signal. For example, the algorithm 200 can resemble the flowchart depicted in FIG. 13. Beginning at start block 202, the controllerinitializes mirror assembly hardware and variables in operation block204. Moving on to decision block 206, if the signal is detected in afirst sensing region, then the controller activates first level of lightin operation block 208. If a signal is not detected in a first sensingregion, then the algorithm moves on to decision block 210.

If a signal is detected in a second region, then the controlleractivates a second level of light in operation block 212. If a signal isnot detected in a second sensing region, then the algorithm moves on todecision block 214. If a signal is detected for a task mode then thecontroller activates a third level of light in operation block 216.

The third level of light can be a power saving level of light, such asif the user plans to keep the light source 30 activated for a relativelylong period of time (e.g., 30 minutes or longer). After the third levelof light is activated, a timer is initialized (block 218). The timer canbe for 30 seconds or any other period of time. If a user is not detectedwithin the sensing region during the 30 second timer, then the lightsource 30 turns off and the algorithm returns to just after the hardwareand variables initialization in operation block 104. If a user isdetected in a sensing region within the 30 second timer, then the 30second timer repeats itself.

In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 can include an algorithmconfigured to maintain the light source (e.g., LED) brightness at agenerally constant level even as the battery capacity is nearing the endof its life (necessitating a recharge) by adjusting the electricalcharacteristics of the power source supplied to the light sourcedepending on the stage of battery life (e.g., increasing the voltage asthe current decreases or increasing the current as the voltagedecreases).

Algorithm 200 may not include all of the blocks described above, or itmay include more decision blocks to account for additional sensingregions, other modes, or other parameters as described throughout thisdisclosure.

In some embodiments, the mirror assembly 2 can include an algorithmconfigured to detect whether the mirror was inadvertently activated,such as with a false trigger or by the presence of an inanimate object.For example, when the sensor detects an object, the controller caninitialize a timer. If the mirror assembly 2 does not detect anymovement before the timer runs out, then the light sources will turnoff. If the mirror assembly 2 does detect movement, then the timer canre-initialize.

As noted above, the mirror assembly 2 can include a processor, which cancontrol, by various scheme and algorithms, input and outputcharacteristics and functions of the mirror assembly 2. The mirrorassembly 2 can also include memory, such as firmware, to store thevarious control schemes and algorithms, as well certain instructionsand/or settings related to various characteristics of the mirrorassembly 2. For example, the memory can include instructions and/orsettings regarding the size of the sensing regions, the sensitivity ofthe sensors, the level of output light, the length of various timers,and otherwise.

The mirror assembly 2 can be configured such that a user can modify(e.g., update, program, or otherwise) the memory, such as by connectingthe mirror assembly 2 to a computer. For example, the mirror 2 can becommunicatively connected with a computer via the port 24 (e.g., using aUSB, cable). Data can be transferred between the computer and the mirrorassembly 2 via the port 24. The mirror assembly 2 can alternatively beconfigured to communicate with a computer wirelessly, such as by acellular, Wi-Fi, or Bluetooth® network, infrared, or otherwise.

When the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with the computer, acontrol panel may be displayed on the computer. The control panel mayallow the user adjust various input and output characteristics for themirror assembly 2. For example, a user can use the control panel toadjust the output of the emitting portions 36 a and 36 b and/or thesensitivity of the transmitter 36 a, 36 b. The user can also configurethe light levels associated with the first and second sensing regions.In another example, the user can adjust the size (e.g., depth, width,and/or height) of one or more of the sensing regions. In someimplementations, the user can use the control panel to modify theoperation and output (e.g., intensity and/or color of the light) of thelight source 30 based on certain conditions, such as the time of day,level of ambient light, amount of battery power remaining, andotherwise. In certain variants, the ability to modify the operationalparameters of the mirror assembly 2 with the control panel can reduce orobviate the need for one or more adjustment devices (e.g., buttons,knobs, switches, or the like) on the mirror assembly 2, therebyproviding a generally uniform exterior surface of the mirror assembly 2(which can facilitate cleaning) and reducing the chance of unintentionaladjustment of the operational parameters (such as when transporting themirror assembly 2).

When the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with the computer, datacan be transferred from the mirror assembly 2 to the computer. Forexample, the mirror assembly 2 can transfer data, such as powerconsumption, estimated remaining battery power, the number ofactivations and/or deactivations of the light source 30, the length ofuse (e.g., of individual instances and/or in total) of the light source30, and otherwise. Software can be used to analyze the transferred data,such as to calculate averages, review usage statistics (e.g., duringspecific periods), recognize and/or draw attention to unusual activity,and display usage statistics on a graph. Transferring usage statisticsfrom the mirror assembly 2 to the computer allows the user to monitorusage and enables the user to calibrate different characteristics of themirror assembly 2 (e.g., based on previous usage and parameters).Transferring data from the mirror assembly 2 to the computer can alsoreduce or avoid the need for one or more adjustment or display deviceson the mirror assembly itself.

When the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with the computer, themirror the computer can also transfer data to the mirror assembly 2.Furthermore, when the mirror assembly 2 is in communication with thecomputer, electrical potential can be provided to the battery 26 before,during, or after such two-way data transfer.

Although the vanity mirror has been disclosed in the context of certainembodiments and examples, it will be understood by those skilled in theart that the present disclosure extends beyond the specificallydisclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments and/or uses ofthe subject matter and obvious modifications and equivalents thereof. Inaddition, while several variations of the vanity mirror have beendescribed in detail, other modifications, which are within the scope ofthe present disclosure, will be readily apparent to those of skill inthe art based upon this disclosure. It is also contemplated that variouscombinations or sub-combinations of the specific features and aspects ofthe embodiments can be made and still fall within the scope of thepresent disclosure. It should be understood that various features andaspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substitutedfor one another in order to form varying modes of the vanity mirror.Thus, it is intended that the scope of the subject matter hereindisclosed should not be limited by the particular disclosed embodimentsdescribed above.

The following is claimed:
 1. A mirror assembly comprising: a housingportion; a surface to be illuminated comprising a mirror; a light sourcedisposed at a periphery of the mirror that emits light; a light guidecomprising a light path positioned along at least a portion of themirror; a support portion configured to provide support for the lightpath; a reflective surface between the light path and the supportportion; and a light scattering region configured to receive lightemitted from the light source and to convey light away from the surfaceto be illuminated and out of the mirror assembly to be reflected backonto the surface to be illuminated; wherein the light scattering regionis disposed on the light path, the light scattering region comprising aplurality of light scattering elements having a pattern density, thelight scattering region configured to encourage a portion of the lightimpacting the light scattering region to be emitted out of the lightpath, away from the surface to be illuminated, out of the mirrorassembly, and toward a user of the mirror, the pattern density of lightscattering elements being less dense in a region near the light sourceand the pattern density being greater in a region spaced farther awayfrom the light source along the periphery of the mirror, such that thereare less light scattering elements in a first area of the lightscattering region near the light source than in a second area of thelight scattering region that is the same size as the first area and thatis spaced farther away from the light source than the first area,thereby facilitating a substantially constant amount of light emittedalong the light path, wherein the plurality of light scattering elementscomprises a subset of light scatting elements that are spaced apart fromeach other along both a transverse dimension of the light path and alongitudinal dimension of the light path, and wherein the lightscattering elements are surface modifications on a surface of the lightpath.
 2. The mirror assembly of claim 1, wherein the scattering regionis comprised of light scattering elements in the region generallyadjacent the light source that are smaller than light scatteringelements in the region generally opposite the light source.
 3. Themirror assembly of claim 2, wherein the light scattering elements aregenerally uniformly distributed along at least a portion of the lightpath.
 4. The mirror assembly of claim 1, wherein the light source ispositioned near an upper portion of the mirror.
 5. The mirror assemblyof claim 1, wherein the light guide is a light pipe disposed alongsubstantially all of the periphery of the mirror.
 6. The mirror assemblyof claim 1, wherein the light source emits light in a directiongenerally orthogonal to a viewing surface of the mirror.
 7. The mirrorassembly of claim 1, wherein the light path comprises a first end and asecond end, and wherein the light source emits light into the first endand another light source emits light into the second end.
 8. The mirrorassembly of claim 1, wherein the light source is configured to projectlight in a first direction around the periphery of the mirror and asecond light source is configured to project light in a second directionaround the periphery of the mirror, the second direction being oppositethe first direction.
 9. The mirror assembly of claim 8, wherein thelight sources each have a color rendering index of at least
 90. 10. Themirror assembly of claim 1, wherein the light path is configured to emitat least about 95% of the light emitted from the light sources.
 11. Themirror assembly of claim 1, wherein the reflective material extendsalong a rear side of the light guide.
 12. The mirror assembly of claim11, wherein the reflective material is an optically reflective paper.13. The mirror assembly of claim 1, wherein the mirror is a circularmirror, and wherein the light guide is a circular light pipe having acircular length from the light source around at least a portion of theperiphery of the circular mirror to a second light source.
 14. A methodof manufacturing a mirror assembly, the method comprising: coupling amirror and a housing portion; disposing a light source at a periphery ofthe mirror; positioning a light pipe comprising a light path along atleast a portion of the mirror; providing a support portion; positioninga reflective surface between the light path and the support portion;providing a modified surface of the light path to form a lightscattering region along a length of the light path, the light scatteringregion comprising a plurality of light scattering elements having apattern density, the plurality of light scattering elements comprising asubset of light scattering elements that are spaced apart from eachother along both a transverse dimension of the light path and alongitudinal dimension of the light path, the light scattering regionconfigured to encourage a portion of the light impacting the lightscattering elements to be emitted out of the light path and out of themirror assembly, the pattern density of the light scattering elementsbeing less dense in a region generally near the light source and thepattern density being greater in a region spaced farther away from thelight source along the periphery of the mirror, thereby facilitating asubstantially constant amount of light emitted along the length of thelight path.
 15. The method of claim 14, further comprising positioningthe light source near an upper portion of the mirror.
 16. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising disposing the light path aroundsubstantially all of the periphery of the mirror.
 17. The method ofclaim 14, further comprising positioning the light source to emit lightin a direction generally orthogonal to a viewing surface of the mirror.18. The method of claim 14, further comprising positioning the lightsource to emit light into a first end of the light path and positioninganother light source to emit light into a second end of the light path.19. The method of claim 14, further comprising disposing lightscattering elements in the scattering region in a generally uniformpattern along at least a portion of the light path.